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Bobby Collins was one of Leeds United’s top players – Eddie Gray

FORMER Leeds United ace and manager Eddie Gray has paid tribute to club legend Bobby Collins.

One-time Leeds skipper, Collins, died on Monday after a battle with illness. He was aged 82.

Said Gray: “In my opinion Bobby Collins was probably the most influential player in the history of Leeds United. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him and played with him.”

Glasgow-born Collins, made 167 appearances during a five-year stint at Elland Road between 1962 and 1967, captaining the side in their FA Cup final debut against Liverpool in 1965 when he was also crowned Footballer of The Year.

He scored 26 goals for Leeds was instrumental in the rise of the club during Don Revie’s tenure as manager.

A Scotland international midfielder, he was signed by Revie from Everton for £25,000 and he led the Elland Road team back to top-flight football in 1964.

The midfielder’s playing career also included spells with Celtic, Bury, Greenock Morton, Oldham Athletic and Shamrock Rovers.

He also managed Huddersfield Town, Hull City and Barnsley, and enjoyed two spells coaching with Leeds.